CHEERLEADING is an integral part of American sports, so with Chester successfully importing basketball with the BiG Storage Cheshire Jets, it makes sense for them to set up a cheerleading troupe, writes Alec Doyle.

The Jets have formally created their own cheerleading club to teach girls and boys the acrobatic skills that wow crowds in the States.

The club, based at Blacon High School, has been created to train young ‘Jetettes’, the team’s matchday cheerleaders, but should they wish to they may also enter competitive cheerleading contests.

Running the club is cheerleading coach Rachel Whitehead, and the 18-year-old is enjoying the challenge.

“Cheerleading is a very physical and fun form of dancing,” said the former Upton High School pupil. “I began through dance, starting with the Chester Angels cheerleading team, and I am just completing an A-level in dance having trained as a fitness instructor.”

The main class is currently open to seven-18-year-olds with plans for a ‘teenies’ session for ages three and up also in the pipeline.

“First and foremost it is a great way to keep fit and have a bit of fun,” said Rachel.

“But if the class wants to we can put together routines for competition as well.”

Competitive cheerleading is a fast-growing sport where teams are marked on their acrobatics and showmanship.

The club meets at Blacon High on Tuesday evenings for training between 7pm and 8.30pm. Anyone interested in joining is welcome to attend.